A Última Imperatriz (2018)

A totally underrated drama which can take you by surprise

Having recently watched as many thrillers as possible, I was searching for a drama to match the caliber of all those 'near-perfect' thrillers of the k-drama world. I stumbled upon this drama, mistaking it to be a rom-com after looking at the cast. I didn't read the summary either, but I swear I never regretted my choice. (That's why I'm making my first review for this drama)

This isn't your regular sageuk drama or some nasty revenge thriller but is an excellent work that is a combo of
1. An outstanding storyline that isn't too easy or overwhelming either
2. A well-balanced pace of the story
3. A good narration/ the way the story unfolds ( gave me the feeling of reading a particular Dan Brown bestseller)
4. Good cast who bring out the essence of the character they portray
5. A cascade of emotions that aren't overly dramatic but something that all viewers would bond with. (You'll love the good ones with all your heart and hate the bad ones pouring all your anger as if it all was happening in your own life)

furthermore,
- I feel like this drama would suit an audience of all ages above 15 since there's no overload of sweetness or bitterness or manic action.
- 26 episodes (52 half episodes)were the best pace this drama could travel on, making all those moments and struggles match the pace of reality

Watching this drama was worth my time, and I don't think it'll disappoint future viewers either.
9I also have a feeling that even k-drama haters wouldn't regret watching it. )

Leia Mais

same old story where people fights for power. Evil mom, puppet son, puppet sons wife death and investigation, innocent girl, wronged second hero, mute siblings, story of mistress, good granny with no power, plotting against family members, revenge programs. Once watchable. However dint have to stretch for 25 to 26 episodes. Most of the time i had to skip or fast forward. Though starting it kept me hook, later its started losing interest as everything is predictable. Am i the only one who feel child actress (Ari) acting is bit overboard or is the character written like that.

Leia Mais

I adore Shin Sung Rok, so anything with him is a must-watch for me. His first love in acting is musical theater, which calls for a more dramatic style than TV, so you can expect that anything he's in will be slightly - or a lot - over-the-top. In this, he crafts a conflicted character who is evil, loving, tortured and a victim as much as an evil-doer. If you are watching this because you want a fluffy romance, you're in the wrong drama.
I don't understand people who complain that some scenes are unrealistic. It's modern Korea with an Imperial family - you are looking for realism? Don't be silly. It's a fantasy and a melodrama. Keep your expectations within the parameters that the author has set, and you'll be fine. If you hate makjang, look elsewhere.
The story is intricate, with the expected plots within plots. It's easy to lose track of all the women in the Emperor's life. But even if you miss some threads, it clips along at a good rate and doesn't drag things out unduly. Typical palace intrigue.
The cast is outstanding. Jang Na Ra is a perfect counterpart to the Emperor, with humor, ethics and strength to spare. I don't think there's a weak performance in the lot, and 7-year-old Oh Na Rin is a winner as the crown princess. If you're addicted to second lead syndrome, you will like Choi Jin Hyuk, although he wasn't my cup of tea. Shin Eun Kyung as the Dowager Empress gave a good performance as the stereotypical woman mad with power.
The music wasn't annoying, always a difficult thing to find in K-drama, and a lot of it was good. Instead of trying hard to create an OST soundtrack that will appeal to the K-Pop set, the music enhanced the drama and rarely called attention to itself, blending carefully into the fabric of the whole.
The ending was surprisingly satisfactory. I expected to be disappointed as the Emperor ended up being a horrible guy to the end, but there were great nuances to his development; it was a nice example of why I love Shin Sung Rok.
Overall, I enjoyed it immensely - it was pure entertainment, well crafted by all. If there was something this engaging every season, I'd be a happy K-drama addict!

Leia Mais

i rarely write reviews. actually, i don't think i have even written one. but these lingering overwhelming feelings i have right after finishing this drama make me want to write one.

it's rare for me to encounter a drama that leaves such intense emotions not only after the finale, but after every single episode. the fact that all characters in this drama are equally complex individuals who are focused and motivated to fight for their goals and purpose makes it very interesting to watch. when you are following this drama, you will bound to hate some characters, love some, and end up rooting for some that you initially hated. not because of bad writing where the character just turns from being a bad to a good person out of nowhere. but because you understand and empathise with why they did what they did. and i think such good writing that allows a viewer to establish such deep connections with a fictional character is part of what makes any drama so damn good.

Leia Mais

According to its name this drama tells the story of falling Joseon dynasty.
This drama destroyed the image of royal family. You can find every crime in the palace.
King actor who was amazing in liar game drama disappointed me. There was 180 degree difference between this role and that role.
Only positive point in this drama is talented actors especially min yura's actress.
treachery is everywhere is this drama. The other name of this drama is "you can't even trust your shadow".
Other negative point is using ridiculous reasons for changing storyline.
I can't believe how silly sunny survived and ruled in the palace. I don't have any word to say :|
Don't let me start with choi jin hyuk character. How can a person change with losing weight that even his girlfriend can't recognize him?
Drama went downhill when strong character min yura kicked from palace. I loved her. I can't believe how writer destroyed her life and made her a lunatic. ㅠㅠ
This drama isn't worthy. Don't watch it.

Leia Mais